COLUMBUS, Ohio — When it comes to NFL Draft decisions, no player on Ohio State’s football team was more uncertain than Davison Igbinosun. After transferring from Ole Miss ahead of the 2023 season, Igbinosun quickly became a key contributor to the Buckeyes’ defensive backfield, expecting to be a pivotal piece of a national championship contender.
Over the past two seasons, he’s logged 1,580 snaps, recorded 104 tackles, four tackles for loss, 14 pass breakups, and two interceptions. In 131 targets, Igbinosun allowed 68 completions (51.9%) for 721 yards and seven touchdowns. At his best, he showcased his physicality, length, and NFL-caliber traits. But those same traits led to his downfall at times—most notably, a staggering 22 penalties in the past two seasons, with 16 of them coming in 2024, the most of any defensive player in the country.
Igbinosun’s decision to return to Ohio State instead of declaring for the NFL Draft suggests he’s betting on refining his game and raising his stock even further. By returning, Igbinosun has the opportunity to address the weaknesses in his game while building on his strengths, which will only enhance his prospects for the next draft cycle.
For Ohio State, Igbinosun’s return is a significant boost to an already thinning defensive backfield. As the Buckeyes are set to lose at least nine starters, the need for experienced leaders is critical—especially at cornerback. Outside of Igbinosun, only two players have experience on the outside. Jermaine Mathews, expected to join Igbinosun in the starting lineup, will be key to filling that void.
The room will also feature Lorenzo Styles Jr., who returns with 162 snaps and is expected to start at nickel. Bryce West, with 29 snaps last season, may also move to nickel. The young but talented depth includes Aaron Scott Jr., a former five-star recruit who played 74 snaps in seven games last season, and Devin Sanchez, the top cornerback from Ohio State’s 2025 recruiting class, who is expected to push for significant playing time.
Igbinosun’s decision to return not only benefits his individual growth but also solidifies his role as a leader in the defensive backfield. In a room that is transitioning from experienced leaders to a crop of talented newcomers, Igbinosun has the chance to help shape the next generation of Ohio State cornerbacks while bolstering his own NFL prospects.
In the grand scheme, Igbinosun’s return is about more than football—it’s about setting the foundation for Ohio State’s defensive future while giving himself another year to refine his skills and stock for the NFL Draft. This decision holds value both for the Buckeyes and for Igbinosun’s personal development, marking a crucial moment for the program.
